Troops rescue 119 kidnap victims, destroy bandit hideouts in Southern Kaduna

By Kingsley Omonobi

Troops of Sub-Sector 5, Operation Fansan Yamma, have rescued 119 kidnapped victims, neutralised several bandits, and destroyed multiple criminal hideouts during sustained military operations across Southern Kaduna.

The Commander of Sub-Sector 5, Navy Capt. Patrick Onoja Ali, disclosed this on Thursday in Kachia, noting that the achievements were made possible through intelligence-driven operations, aggressive patrols, and collaboration with local communities and other security agencies.

He said the unit, established on January 28, 2024, was mandated to restore security across Kachia, Kajuru, Chikun, Kagarko, and parts of Zangon Kataf Local Government Areas of Kaduna State.

According to him, the operational structure includes the 312 Artillery Regiment, 305 Artillery Regiment, Maritime Component, and the DSS Special Operations Force.

Ali said kidnapping, armed robbery, cattle rustling, and attacks on farming communities remain the major security threats in the area, but troops have maintained sustained pressure on criminal elements through clearance operations and patrols.

He said one of the early major successes occurred between January 31 and February 1, 2026, when troops destroyed several bandit camps across multiple locations, disrupting criminal activities.

On February 4, troops in Kachia responded to a kidnapping and motorcycle theft incident in Angwan Wahala, engaging fleeing suspects, neutralising one bandit, rescuing seven victims, and recovering three stolen motorcycles.

Ali also highlighted the rescue of 88 kidnapped worshippers in Kurmin-Risga, describing it as one of the most significant operations of the unit. He said the victims were abducted during a church service before a coordinated operation led to their safe rescue.

Between February 12 and 13, troops operating in the Kajuru axis rescued 24 kidnapped victims who escaped from a bandit hideout in Rijana Forest, after clearance operations in the area.

He added that four suspected bandits were arrested in March and handed over to the 1 Division Nigerian Army for investigation and prosecution.

Ali said troops continue to maintain a strong presence through Forward Operating Bases, conducting patrols, stop-and-search operations, and community protection missions to prevent attacks on schools, farms, and other targets.

He also noted that a recent intervention in Makyali community foiled a planned bandit attack on farmers, restoring confidence among residents.

The commander commended community cooperation, saying traditional rulers, local leaders, and residents regularly provide actionable intelligence that supports military operations.

He assured that Operation Fansan Yamma would sustain both offensive and protective operations across Southern Kaduna, with continued efforts to dismantle criminal networks and restore lasting peace to the region.

The post Troops rescue 119 kidnap victims, destroy bandit hideouts in Southern Kaduna appeared first on Vanguard News.